Tuesday, January 31, 2017

We had a good size group today which filled the parking lot. Next year we will move the start location to allow for more parking. Sorry for any inconvenience.

Updated 02/02/07: Course map added - Garmin file and route sheet.

What: Bean Lake Gravel Challenge
When: Sunday February 5, 2017, 9:00 am
Where: Weston, MO - Meet at the Weston Bluffs Trail head
Why: Come enjoy a scenic and challenging ride to one of the few remaining marshes left in the Missouri River Floodplain.

Last years ride was held on snow packed trails.

A little history on Bean Lake...Bean Lake in a section of the Little
Bean Marsh Conservation Area. The 400 acre oxbow is home to migrating
waterfowl and shorebirds during spring and fall. Amazingly, more than
130 species of birds have been seen here though the number of birds
depends on the water level. There is half a mile of disabled accessible
trail that is perfect for hiking with families and friends. This leads
to a viewing platform over the freshwater marsh. Another 200 yard trail
leads to a viewing blind overlooking Cottonwood Slough.

The main trail head only has room for about 25 vehicles. If that lot fills up there is additional parking on Beverly Drive. Note: no facilities are available at the trail head (plenty of woods however...).
The main route is just under 40 miles in length. Course is 95% gravel. A combination of
scenic trail along the Weston Bluffs Trail and the Missouri River.
Hills? Yes there will be some hills and some of the finest gravel
around. You will complete a loop around Bean Lake.

Disclaimer for the Bean Lake Gravel Challenge:You are 100%
responsible for yourself! You are totally on your own. There are no
rider services. There is no support. If you choose to participate, you
agree to taking full responsibility for what happens to you out on the
course. Please have someone you can call to come get you in the case of
emergency, fatigue, freezing weather or bike failure.

Updated 01/28/17: Weather is looking great for tomorrows ride. Ride temps in the high 30's to low 40's. For those who are not ready for the full loop, we added a modified shorter route which is 32 miles. Updated route also posted below.

Jeff Arnaud brings us the 6th Annual Lake Dabinawa Grinder. A very
popular ride with a route that all ability levels will enjoy.
This ride will tour North of Lawrence and visit Lake Dabinawa . Meet in
the Lawrence visitor center parking lot across from Johnny's Tavern.
Cross bike or MTB needed. For
those who want some post ride food, maybe a crowd favorite pizza, head over to Johnny's Tavern after the ride.

**Remember, you are responsible for yourself and you ride at your own
risk. You are totally on your own. There are no rider services. There
is no support. If you choose to participate, you agree to taking full
responsibility for what happens to you out on the course.Always follow
all traffic laws and rules. Always choose safety
first and be prepared.**